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Each week, we post the latest articles and new blog content across a variety of categories. Browse our latest.
The Nest Is Empty and So Are We: Returning to Life as a Couple Once the Children Move On (Part 2)
In Part 1 of this article, we discussed how to prepare for life as a couple after children while the children are still at home. This week I will focus on some ideas for the couple as the children are leaving and after they have left. For those of you getting ready to experience this transition or currently struggling with it, I hope to provide a bit of comfort and [...]
The Nest Is Empty and So Are We: Returning to Life as a Couple Once the Children Move On (Part 1)
Though the amount of time varies on how long couples wait to have children, it is safe to say that the minimum of 18 years a couple spends parenting greatly outweighs the time they initially spend as a couple, focused simply on the relationship between the two of them. It is no wonder, then, that being “parents” becomes an identity. A lifestyle. And a tough routine to move on from, [...]
The Dynamic Duo: How to Stay a Loving Couple In the Midst of a Family
While I may have a bit of knowledge about relationships and communication stored up, I will not pretend that I’m an authority on superheroes. However, if we think about the strength, focus and ability it takes to have and raise children, the demands seem as thought they’d require superhuman abilities. I have yet to meet a parent who wouldn’t appreciate the superpower of reenergizing without sleep, lightening-fast-speed to chase the [...]
Finding Your Love Language: Five Steps to Showing You Care
Last week I addressed conflict in couples’ relationships: how to remind yourself that your partner is not your sworn enemy while going through tough times, and how to show vulnerability to your partner, helping them to understand that you really do care. Continuing down this path to better communication, I would like to touch and expand on a bit of insight from the great book The 5 Love Languages: The [...]
You Are Not My Enemy
by Grant Stenzel, MS LCPC Sometimes in our sessions at Stenzel Clinical, it’s not unusual for us to ask couples to stand in front of each other and say this phrase: “You are not my enemy.” It’s not just a mantra but the beginning of trying to get each spouse to show greater fragility. Not to be stereotypical about it, but generally when we counsel couples, the female in the [...]
Finding (or Keeping) a Job Worth Celebrating
As our last month of summer began, bringing with it our final summer holiday, I was struck with a deep gratitude for my career, recognizing that I am very fortunate to love what I do. This made me think of others who are struggling to feel the same, approaching work with much boredom, anxiety or dread. Most people spend a considerable amount of time at work. Week after week for [...]